Wittek, a redshirt freshman, edged classmate Cody Kessler in a tight duel that began in spring practice and extended through training camp. Kiffin did not cite any single factor that gave Wittek the edge.

“We feel very confident about both guys; they can both run our offense, really,” Kiffin said. “There's not much difference at all between them, and in the end … somebody had to be No. 2, so Max is No. 2. Hopefully we'll be in a situation or at a point this year, or a couple of times, where both of them get action – that would be ideal for us.”

Just as he said a year ago, Kiffin stressed that this depth-chart decision “will have nothing to do with who is the starter next season.” Kiffin named Kessler the backup in 2011. He, Wittek and five-star recruit Max Browne will battle to succeed Barkley in spring.

Wittek's immediate focus is Saturday's opener against Hawaii. Kiffin informed him of the decision Tuesday morning, at first joking that walk-on John Manoogian would be the backup. The real message was: “We're going with you. Stay ready.”

“I'm excited about the opportunity,” Wittek said. “Obviously I have to stay ready every game, stay ready every play, keep my head in the game and take advantage of my opportunities when they come.”

Kessler said the backup decision won't change his approach. He plans to keep competing as if the job is still open.

“I trust Coach's decision,” Kessler said. “He called me in there and told me straight up as a man. He shot me straight, which is a big thing for me.

“There's no hard feelings or anything. This is a grown man's business. You just stay strong.”

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